David de Gea was crucial in Manchester United’s 1-1 draw in Madrid (Picture: AFP)

David de Gea is refusing to accept having the last laugh on his critics until Manchester United’s Champions League mission is complete.

De Gea has been subjected to enormous criticism during his brief United career, and before yesterday’s 1-1 draw with Real Madrid, Sir Alex Ferguson likened his development to a toddler learning how to walk.

However, the 22-year-old goalkeeper impressed in the Bernabeu to make United slight favourites ahead of the second leg on March 5 but De Gea knows the job is only half done.

‘The party is not over,’ the former Atletico Madrid stopper said. ‘We are talking about Real Madrid, one of the world’s best. They still have to come to us [at Old Trafford].

‘It was a good result for us, though, one we deserved.’

Fabio Coentrao had particular reason to curse De Gea’s agility.

David de Gea kept Jose Mourinho’s side at bay (Picture: Getty)

It was the full-back’s curling shot De Gea tipped onto the post in the opening minutes and the Portugal star was also denied in the second half after creeping in at the far post.

On that occasion, De Gea saved with his feet, proving that while a packed Premier League penalty area might not be to his liking, in shot-stopping terms he one is one of the very best.

‘It all happened so fast,’ he added. ‘I got across and was lucky enough to save it with my feet.

‘I am very happy with my performance. I am improving every day at Old Trafford and I am very happy.’

Meanwhile, former Old Trafford goalkeeper Mark Bosnich believes De Gea’s Bernabeu heroics prove he should stay at Manchester United.

The former Manchester United stopper said: ‘The criticism has been very harsh. It’s come from people who don’t really know. When you’re in goal at the Bernabeu, you feel Real’s momentum.

‘The roar is deafening. So well done to him. He has been linked with a move back to Madrid but I hope he stays and continues to prove his value.’

United now turn their attention to domestic matters, with an FA Cup tie against Reading at Old Trafford on Monday evening.